Transport yourself to 1933, four years into the great
depression, New York City. To say
times were tough would be an understatement. I recall my grandmother telling me that she would work long
hours as a seamstress in downtown Seattle, just to pay rent for her tiny studio
flat, which she shared with four other girls. Unfortunately, when times are tough, industries like the
performance arts and theater suffer greatly.
42nd Street is a fictional, yet historical
reference to the times in 1933. Famed director, Julian Marsh, needs a smash hit
and is holding auditions for his latest show “Pretty Lady.” Now that the tone
has been set for the importance of the acclaim of the show, with each passing
scene you feel Marsh’s desperation increase for a sensational cast. Finally,
his passion for success is superseded by desperately falling in love with the
one woman who could save the show and steal his heart.
42nd Street is a quirky musical comedy, where you
definitely “come and meet those dancing feet.” Every act is chock-full of dance
numbers, which will have you tapping your feet along with the music, and
laughing at the comedic overacting of the showgirls, who drip with sarcasm and bosomy
charm.
If you love tap dancing numbers, this is the show for you! I
absolutely love this style of dance, which I will go as far to say that 42nd
street has more of than any other show on Broadway! Caitlin Ehlinger, who plays Peggy Sawyer, is quite possibly
one of the most talented tap-artists I have ever come across! That girl can
really move!
Although, I must admit, Julian Marsh, portrayed by Matthew
J. Taylor, was the highlight of the performance for me. His deep voice and rugged no-nonsense
commanding personality, left me a little light-headed. Taylor definitely had throw-down, and a
lovely deep singing voice to back it up.
What do you expect from a man who has portrayed some of the most
heart-throbbing, charismatic characters in theater from Professor Harold Hill
in the Music Man, to Curly in Oklahoma!
42nd Street is tons of fun! Whether your pleasure
be showgirls, men with throw-down, or simply amazing dancers, go check out this
show!
Shows run through Sunday, January 17.
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